President-elect Donald Trump has invited Chinese President Xi Jinping and other foreign leaders to attend his January 20 inauguration in Washington, according to Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump transition team. The invitation was reportedly extended in early November, shortly after Trump’s November 5 election victory. The move highlights Trump’s willingness to engage with global powers early in his presidency.
Leavitt confirmed that Xi’s response is still “to be determined” and declined to provide details on other invited leaders. She emphasized Trump’s approach to fostering dialogue with allies, adversaries, and competitors alike, always prioritizing America’s interests.
“This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies but our adversaries and our competitors, too,” Leavitt stated.
CBS News first reported the invitation to Xi, noting its significance given the often-tense relationship between the U.S. and China. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment. The Kremlin, in a separate statement, confirmed that it had not received an invitation to attend the ceremony.
Inviting Xi and other world leaders to the inauguration could mark a departure from past norms, signaling a shift in how Trump’s administration plans to engage internationally. The decision to include China, a major economic competitor and geopolitical rival, underscores a potential strategy of direct engagement with global powers.
Further details about the guest list and potential attendance of other leaders remain undisclosed as the inauguration approaches. Observers will be closely watching for responses from invited nations and the tone this sets for Trump’s foreign policy.
